A little girl smiles as she holds two Thai Extra Long Sponge gourds against a white background.
A little girl smiles big as she holds Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourds outside against a wooden wall.
A Baker Creek Horticulturalist holds a Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourd in the gourd tunnel.
A little girl smiles as she holds a couple of Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourds in front of a weathered wooden fence.
A little girl smiles as she holds two Thai Extra Long Sponge gourds against a white background.
A little girl smiles big as she holds Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourds outside against a wooden wall.
A Baker Creek Horticulturalist holds a Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourd in the gourd tunnel.
A little girl smiles as she holds a couple of Thai Extra Long Sponge Gourds in front of a weathered wooden fence.

Gourd Seeds,
Thai Extra Long Sponge

3.84 ReviewsSKU: #AG109Min. seed count: 8
Price
Regular price $4.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $4.50
Save $-4.50
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Description

(Luffa aegyptiaca). We collected this massive, long-fruited luffa in Thailand and are so excited to offer this show stopping, 4 feet long variety! A fast-growing, long-season, warm-climate vine that can climb over 15 feet on a strong trellis and is extremely prolific. This amazing plant was a stunner in our gourd tunnel. The fruit is edible and delicious when immature at about 2 feet long and is tasty cooked like zucchini. The mature fruit has sponge-like fibers that are famous for being used as bath and cleaning sponges. After the fruit matures, bang the gourds around to loosen the seeds, peel, squeeze and rinse the gourd until all that remains is a clean sponge. Cut them into different shapes depending on how they will be used and they make great gifts.

Growing Tips: Thai Extra Long Sponge gourd is a highly productive tropical vine known for its impressively long, smooth fruits, often reaching over 4 feet. This variety thrives in hot, humid conditions and well-drained, fertile soil. Support vigorous vines with a sturdy trellis to ensure straight fruits and improved airflow. Regular watering, warm temperatures, and ample sun exposure are essential for vigorous growth and high yields.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Luffa aegyptiaca
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
120–130
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow Thai Extra Long Sponge gourd after all danger of frost has passed, when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F. It requires a long, warm growing season to fully mature. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks early before transplanting outdoors. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to encourage faster germination. Sow 1/2 inch deep in rich, well-drained soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Space plants 18–24 inches apart, allowing 4–6 feet between rows or supports. Provide sturdy trellises or arbors to guide climbing vines. Keep soil evenly moist and thin seedlings to the strongest plant per space once established.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the season, watering at the base to prevent fungal diseases. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feed monthly with compost tea or a balanced organic fertilizer. Thai Extra Long Sponge gourd vines are vigorous and benefit from frequent pruning to improve airflow and fruit set. Harvest young gourds at 12–18 inches for tender eating, or allow them to mature fully for sponge production.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow fruits to fully mature and dry on the vine until brown and lightweight.
  • Harvest and remove the skin to expose the fibrous sponge interior.
  • Shake or tap out the dark, hard seeds.
  • Rinse and dry seeds thoroughly for 7–10 days in a shaded, ventilated area.
  • Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry location; viable for up to five years.

FAQ

Can Thai Extra Long Sponge gourd be eaten?

Yes. Harvest young fruits while still tender and green, at about 2 feet long. They are delicious when stir-fried, sauteed, or added to soups and curries.

Why are my Thai Extra Long Sponge gourds not setting fruit?

Insufficient pollination is the most common cause. Encourage pollinators by planting flowers nearby or hand-pollinate early in the morning when blossoms are open.

How long does it take for Thai Extra Long Sponge gourd to dry for sponges?

Fully mature gourds require 3–4 months on the vine to dry completely. Once brown and lightweight, they can be harvested and processed for natural bath or cleaning sponges.

Browse our full range of gourd seeds.
FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.
Alternate domestic shipping options available at checkout.
You may also like